Method for creating computer-aided design (CAD) solid models from numerically controlled (NC) machine instructions

摘要

A method of generating a computer-based three-dimensional representation of an object resulting from cutting tool operations that remove portions of material from an initial tool solid is disclosed. Using data containing dimensions of the cutting tool and data concerning the tool paths (e.g., points defining the tool paths), the method involves creating a model of the initial tool solid, creating a model of the tool solid removed along each tool path, and subtracting each tool solid model removed from the initial tool solid model. The data concerning the tool paths can be derived from numerically controlled (NC) machine fabrication instructions.